Update, 6 p.m.: Michael Powers, who police say killed his parents and then took his own life, had previously been convicted of second-degree murder for a shooting in 1996. That conviction was later overturned, and he pleaded down to reckless homicide, according to court records obtained today by Clarksville Now.
On Sept. 1, 1996, Michael Powers, then 19, and Jeffery “Ice” Miller, then 18, got in a dispute with the victim, Joshua Kelley, 17, in a parking lot on Riverside Drive, according to the records. The dispute was over insulting comments they believed Kelley made to a woman.
Witness testimony varied. Some said Powers handed Miller a gun and said, “Cap him.” Others said Miller grabbed the gun from Powers. Miller shot the ground at Kelley’s feet, then shot Kelley in the chest, and Kelley bled to death.
Powers was convicted by a jury of second-degree murder in 1997, but in 1999 he won an appeal based on incomplete jury instructions from then-Judge John Gasaway. The court sent the case back for retrial. In August 2000, Powers entered a best-interest plea to reckless homicide and aggravated assault. He was sentenced to 12 years at 60%, minus time served.
Since then, Powers has had other arrests, including for theft and criminal trespass. The criminal trespass charge was closed this month, on Sept. 5.
Update, 5:25 p.m.: Following the investigation, and in coordination with the Davidson County Medical Examiner’s Office, it has been determined that this was a double homicide/suicide. Michael Powers killed his parents then took his own life, Beaubien said.
“This is a heartbreaking situation, and our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones affected,” Beaubien said.
Previously
CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Police have identified the three people found dead inside a home in the Wingate neighborhood of Clarksville Tuesday afternoon.
At approximately 1:38 p.m. Tuesday, Clarksville Police responded to the house on Idlewood Drive, off Dunbar Cave Road, after receiving a 911 call reporting that three people inside were deceased, according to CPD spokesman Scott Beaubien. The deceased were 75-year-old Scott Powers, 74-year-old Kathryn Powers, and 48-year-old Michael Powers. Next of kin has been notified.
Detectives with the CPD Special Operations Homicide Unit, along with members of the Crime Scene Unit, responded and processed the scene. “This remains an active and ongoing investigation; however, investigators have stated that based on the evidence, they do not believe there is any threat to the public,” Beaubien said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Goble at 931-648-0656, ext. 5323. To remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward, submit a tip online at the Clarksville-Montgomery County Crime Stoppers website or call the Tipsline, 931-645-8477.
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